Volatile Pork Prices Predicted for 2013

Feb 04, 2013

Rabobank Report: Higher Feed Costs Weakens Global Pork Price Expectations

Rabobank released its pork quarterly Q1, noting that while global pork prices starting off strong in 2013, it anticipated that there will be a weakening in prices in late Q1 and into Q2. The key factor for this trend is pressured coupled with slowing growth in global production levels.

The report outlines some of the key factors believed to influence pork prices for this year including – looking at the European production levels given the new animal welfare regulations, China’s demands for imports, and signs if US hog production will expand.

“Despite the higher feed input costs, the US swine breeding herd has modestly expanded and large scale farming continues to develop at a rapid pace in China, Russia and Brazil. There seems to be limited opportunity for a significant increase in pork prices, given this expansion. Chinese hog supplies appear to be sufficient, but their economy is recovering which could stimulate demand growth,” said David Nelson, Rabobank Analyst.

Overall, Rabobank predicts that global pork prices will be lower than previously forecasted largely due to higher feed costs and herd liquidation – which is happening in the U.S.

Video: Exploring Precision Data in Swine Production - Dr. Janice Siegford

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show, Dr. Janice Siegford from Michigan State University discusses how precision livestock farming data can support pig health, welfare, transparency, and decision making. She explains why data ownership, privacy, consumer perception, and cost sharing must be addressed as technology becomes more common on farms. Listen now on all major platforms.

“Precision livestock farming data can support producers, veterinarians, certifiers, and consumers by enabling improved monitoring, prediction, and decision-making across the entire production system.”

Meet the guest: Dr. Janice Siegford / janice-siegford-24318839 is a Professor and Associate Chair in the Department of Animal Science at Michigan State University. Her expertise in animal welfare, neuroscience, and zoology supports research on pig behavior, stress resilience, and precision livestock farming. Her work explores early weaning, genetics, and stakeholder perspectives on technology adoption to improve pig care, health, and productivity. Learn more from Dr. Janice Siegford on The Swine it Podcast Show, available on all major platforms.